My Jewish Learning has web-published an important article by Naomi Graetz on "Domestic Violence in Jewish Law: How Judaism views wifebeating." In her article you can learn some of the basics of Jewish law on this topic as well as how the biblical and rabbinic authorities understood halachah (Jewish law) in each time period and major area of the Jewish world.
Yes, abuse, domination and violence in the home happens in Judaism. It is not a pleasant reality. However, it is one which our people must face, address and work to end.
Amelah's Blog (Thoughts from a Rabbi) 